Resilience & Innovation for Public Policy | Lt Gen (Dr.) Kamal Jit Singh | TEDxCGC Mohali

Quick Overview

Lt Gen (Dr.) Kamal Jit Singh shares his personal story of defying bureaucratic norms and trusting his intuition to build a successful museum and information center, emphasizing the importance of challenging rules when necessary and focusing on innovation and human connection over rigid adherence to procedure.

Key Points: The speaker, Lt Gen (Dr.) Kamal Jit Singh (Veteran), discusses encountering resistance when proposing the creation of a museum after his retirement. He faced opposition from government officials who cited rules preventing the establishment of such a facility, which was described as a 'living, thriving museum of its own kind.' The speaker refused to be bound by the bureaucratic logic, stating that rules are for guidance, not to deny service or progress, and he chose to 'push the envelope' against conventional thinking. He recounts an instance where he successfully convinced the Railway Minister, Suresh Prabhu, to restore a train route (the one passing near Chandi Mandir) despite initial objections, highlighting the power of persuasion. He contrasts the military's focus on documented procedures with the need for flexibility and innovation in public service, noting that his younger colleagues often adhere too strictly to rules. The speaker mentions that when he was posted as Army Commander in Jammu, he was told by an Information Commissioner that RTI (Right to Information) is a 'bad word' and that he should not expect information easily. Ultimately, the speaker succeeded in his endeavors (like the museum and the train restoration) by actively challenging norms and focusing on achieving the right outcome.

Context: This TEDx talk delivered by Lt Gen (Dr.) Kamal Jit Singh, a veteran and former Army Commander, centers on the theme of resilience, innovation, and the necessity of occasionally bending or breaking established rules when they impede progress or common sense, particularly in the context of public service and institution building after military life.